Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is a decadent, French-inspired dish perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners. Featuring tender shrimp and sweet crab meat in a rich, seasoned broth, this bisque is finished with a touch of heavy cream for added indulgence. Serve it hot with crusty bread to soak up every flavorful spoonful. Easy to customize with a hint of spice or your favorite fresh herbs, this seafood bisque is guaranteed to impress!

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Creamy crab and shrimp seafood bisque | Recipesbyclare.com

Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque is the ultimate indulgent dish, combining tender shrimp, sweet crab, and a rich seasoned broth. This bisque is perfect for special dinners or when you want to treat yourself to a luxurious seafood experience. Pair it with crusty bread for the perfect accompaniment.

INGREDIENTS

  • Shrimp: 1/2 lb cooked, peeled, deveined, and chopped
  • Crab Meat: 1/2 lb cooked, shells removed
  • Olive Oil: 1 tbsp, for sautéing vegetables
  • Vegetables: 1/4 cup each of finely chopped celery and carrot, and 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for added flavor
  • Seasonings: 1 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and black pepper to taste
  • Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose, for thickening the bisque
  • Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp, to add depth of flavor
  • Broth: 4 cups seafood or chicken broth
  • Heavy Cream: 1 cup, for richness
  • Sherry: 2 tbsp (optional), for a sophisticated touch
  • Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, or dill for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, carrot, and onion, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 2:
Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Step 3:
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the broth to avoid lumps, then bring to a simmer.
Step 4:
Simmer the bisque for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Add sherry if desired for added flavor.
Step 5:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream, followed by the chopped shrimp and crab meat. Cook for 5 minutes until the seafood is heated through.
Step 6:
Season the bisque with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot with crusty bread.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serve the bisque hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed.

Helpful Notes

  • Use high-quality seafood for the best flavor. Fresh shrimp and crab are ideal, but frozen, cooked options work well too.
  • For a smoother texture, blend half of the bisque before adding the seafood.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

  • Chef Simone suggests adding a pinch of saffron for an elevated flavor profile.
  • Chef Thomas recommends serving the bisque with a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious finish.
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque
Creamy Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque | recipesbyclare.com